studiedag

A studiedag is a designated day within educational institutions, primarily in Dutch-speaking contexts, set aside for professional development, staff training, curriculum planning, or administrative tasks. On such days, regular teaching is typically suspended or modified to accommodate staff activities, workshops, meetings, or self-study projects.

In practice, studiedag arrangements vary by country and school. In the Netherlands and Flanders (the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium), studiedagen are commonly scheduled during the school year. On these days, students often have the day off or participate in supervised study or optional activities, while teachers attend training sessions or collaborate on curriculum and assessment development. The exact format—whether students stay home, attend limited classes, or engage in school-supervised activities—differs by institution and local policy.

The studiedag concept is similar to the English-language term “in-service day” or “professional development day.” It is distinct from regular school holidays or examination days and is usually announced well in advance as part of the school calendar. In some contexts, the term may also be used for staff development days in other educational settings, including universities, adult education centers, or public institutions.

Criticism and variation exist around studiedagen, with some arguing that frequent or poorly planned days disrupt continuity of learning, while others view them as essential opportunities to improve teaching quality, update curricula, and implement new teaching methods or technologies. The exact use and impact of a studiedag depend on national regulations, regional policies, and individual school practices.